Each post rises from my thoughts in layers and stages. I record my thoughts as life happens, capturing moments until I have the time and space in my mind to sit down and type it all up. Sometimes I can finish a post in one sitting. Other times, it takes a few.
So, this is how I thought this post would begin…
It has been three days of nonstop snowfall, bringing 10-12 inches each day. By the time I have a moment to sit down and continue writing, it has now been five days, and we have four feet of fresh snow.
Everyone is excited about the fresh powder, and I would love to experience the “buzz” of skiing in deep, untouched snow. Unfortunately, my short hike yesterday brought back the tightening in my calf. :(
I enjoy physical work, especially when it takes me outdoors. So, cleaning my car doesn’t feel like a chore but rather an opportunity for a workout. Despite my best efforts, keeping up with the snow feels like an endless task. Just when I think I have clean enough, another layer falls.
Luckily, I have had some help from Zack one day, and Patrick and his friends Parks and Anden the next. My upper body strength has undoubtedly gained a few extra muscles over the last few months. :)
I love the magical feeling a snow shower brings, especially when the snowflakes are big, beautiful fluffs. I love watching them drift down, taking their time before settling gently on the ground. I watch them land on my black jacket, mesmerized by the contrast. It reveals the intricate beauty of each one and how uniquely different they are, yet how they come together to create something breathtaking.
And I think to myself—what a beautiful lesson snowflakes offer about harmony, peace, and unity. Each one is distinct, yet they do not resist one another. They merge, cooperate, and find balance, reminding me that even in our differences, we can come together to create something beautiful.
A few weeks ago, as I rolled up my window shade, a beautiful sunrise greeted me, welcoming a new day. I took a picture, capturing the moment. I love the view from my window! Now, after so many days of snowfall, a small mountain has risen outside my window…
Stories from the Lost and Found window.
A guy came to our window looking for his wife's hat (let's call him Mike). From his description, nothing about the hat is particularly unique except that it has the old Winter Park logo. However, it is obvious this hat holds special meaning for his wife. Mike visits us several times but never fills out our Lost & Found blue form.
A few weeks pass, and guess what shows up? Yes, the hat! Chandler and I look at each other with amazement, acknowledging that this is the hat. But it has been a while since we last saw Mike. He stopped showing up to check on it.
I put the hat to the side, hoping that Mike will come back soon.
One late afternoon, a lady stands at our window with the same hat in her hands, asking if, by any chance, we have another just like it.
Yes! We do!!!
I love these reunion moments. The simple joy in a person's face, the genuine happiness always warms my heart.
So now, another story…
It is the end of the day, and people are packing their gear, heading home. A middle-aged woman approaches the window with a frown on her face (let's call her Emily). Emily is looking for her lavender helmet with the goggles attached. I am on the phone, only half-aware of her conversation with Chandler.
The next day, a gentleman brings in a lavender helmet with goggles that match her description—the very details my half-listening ear had caught. Excited for her, I grab the blue form folder to call Emily, only to realize she never filled one out.
To my disappointment, Emily never took that extra second to write it down or even call the next day to check on it. I set the helmet aside on a separate shelf, away from the rest, so I can retrieve it quickly if she ever stops by again.
Two opposite stories. Two different approaches to life.
One person had persistent hope and faith returning time and again, believing that what was lost could be found.
The other, perhaps, assumed the worst and let her disappointment guide her actions, never following up, never giving fate a chance to surprise her.
Life is like a wave on a blue ocean. The way you choose to ride it determines your journey to the shore.
Wow. With al that snow you. have to be a real adventurer, and a strong one, to survive! Good for you.